Evaluation of the PL-480 Title II program in the Dominican Republic : final report

Special evaluation is based on workshop discussions with PVO representatives and on site visits and was intended to stimulate self-assessment by PVO's and to develop with them a process for improving the Food for Work (FFW) and maternal/child health (MCH) components of the Title II program. In regard to the MCH program, it was concluded that: better methods are needed to target foods toward the more serious cases of malnourishment; other food resources must be found; and other activities, such as local food production and nutrition education, should be integrated into the program. Lack of stability (e.g., product changes) in Title II food disrupts consumption patterns and creates complexities for nutrition education efforts. Improved collaboration between the PVO's and the Secretariat of Health's nutrition program is essential, and there is a need for PVO's to share their experiences and to stress that Title II foods are supplemental, not basic, foods. Specific activities are suggested for each PVO to pursue in the future. The FFW projects have recently focused on encouraging local and organized self-help efforts, typified by farmers' associations, mothers' clubs, and community development groups. Suitable targets for future FFW projects include maintaining feeder roads; producing basic crops; construction (e.g., housing, school, and water projects); conserving natural resources; and organizing unsettled families into stable, cooperating communities. The need for equity in distributing FFW food is highlighted. PVO's are reassessing their relations with USAID/D and government programs and attempting to focus their resources more effectively. Their special contributions (which should be linked with but not integrated with the efforts of others) could include: focusing on areas and segments of the population not currently reached by governmental welfare or development efforts; developing innovative techniques and programs; and stimulating private, economic and social organization through technical and financial aid.